A surprising use for Head and Shoulders shampoo has emerged that has nothing to do with hair care. An NHS doctor recently shared a TikTok video where a woman touted the common shampoo as her ‘miracle cure’ for treating fungal acne. The video showcased the woman applying the shampoo to her face, resulting in smoother skin with fewer bumps. NHS surgeon Dr Karan Rajan explained that anti-dandruff shampoos like Head and Shoulders can be effective in combating fungal acne due to the zinc content. However, he cautioned that this method may not work for all acne types. Different acne types typically require specific treatments; for example, deep cystic acne might need retinoids and anti-inflammatory medication, while surface-level blackheads could benefit from salicylic acid.
In the case of fungal acne, the overgrowth of the skin yeast malassezia is to blame, which is also associated with dandruff. Anti-dandruff shampoos usually contain antifungal ingredients like zinc pyrithione and selenium sulphide, making them potentially effective for fungal acne treatment. Nonetheless, Dr Rajan warned that using Head and Shoulders on the face may not be suitable for everyone and could even worsen the condition by irritating and drying out the skin, compromising the skin barrier. He also highlighted that this method is not effective for bacterial acne, the most prevalent type treated by dermatologists.
Identifying fungal acne versus bacterial acne is crucial as fungal acne typically presents as uniform, itchy bumps caused by yeast overgrowth and requires antifungal treatment. On the other hand, bacterial acne often manifests as deeper cysts and nodules and may necessitate a different treatment approach. Acne, a common skin condition affecting a significant portion of the population, can arise from various triggers such as hormonal changes, genetics, and lifestyle factors like smoking or using specific cosmetic products.
The NHS recommends seeking medical advice for moderate to severe acne or the development of nodules or cysts to prevent scarring. While home remedies can suffice for mild acne, consulting a GP for individualised treatment is advised for more severe cases. It’s important to rely on established methods for treating acne and consult with specialists for medical conditions rather than relying solely on online beauty trends.